S23 Day Paddles - St Johns River

Drayton Island Ferry Ramp to Stegbones Fish Camp Ramp Paddle Information Sheet Description: This paddle starts just above the north end of at the Drayton Island Ferry Ramp. The ferry is an auto ferry that crosses the St. Johns River in Putnam County, , connecting Georgetown on the eastern bank with Drayton Island, located in the middle of the river at the north end of Lake George. It provides the only pub- lic access to the island. The paddle continues down through Little Lake George and past the town of Welaka on your right. Welaka is considered the beginning of the Lower Basin of the St. Johns River. This is also the beginning of the more developed part of the river, however the western shore remains wild through most of this leg. Skill Level: Intermediate Distance/Approximate Time: 10.7 Miles/4.5 Hours Launch Site: Drayton Island Ferry Ramp Takeout Site: Stegbones Fish Camp Ramp Special Considerations: Stay out of the channel and paddle along the shoreline when possible.

Skill Level Definitions Beginner: New to paddling and may need tips and or instructions about paddling strokes, safety procedures, and entering/exiting kayaks. Comfortable on short trips of 1 to 3 miles on pro- tected waters, when wind does not exceed 5 mph. Novice: Paddlers acquainted with basic paddle stokes and can manage kayak handling in- dependently in winds not exceeding 10 mph on protected waters. Comfortable on trips up to 6 miles. Intermediate: Paddlers with experience in basic strokes and some experience on different venues, including some open water. Comfortable on trip distances of 6 to 10 miles, winds not ex- ceeding 15 mph. Advanced: Seasoned paddlers who possess skills and experience to paddle all venues and conditions. Experienced in self-rescues. Should be comfortable paddling more than 10 miles in a day.

NOTE: Great care has been taken to ensure this guides accuracy, but weather, tides, and water conditions can change rapidly and create hazardous conditions. These maps are for visual reference only, please consult NOAA Charts for navigation. Paddlers should have all proper safety equipment and check conditions before departure. All paddlers should always wear PFDs while on the water, and leave a float plan. There are inherent dangers in any paddle sport. There are special hazards along the Florida coast due to shifting tides, changing wind and weather, shallow waters, and treacherous bottoms with soft mud, rocks, and oyster bars. It is up to each paddler to be aware of these dangers, to accept and be prepared for the risks involved, and to be certain they have the skills to safely paddle in these conditions.